Celebrating America250: New Jersey Folk Revival Music

New Jersey, during the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries shaped the sound, spirit and trajectory of folk revival music into an international art form. The saga began with the bawdy tunes sung in colonial taverns, and continued with folk songs that echoed through the Pine Barrens and urban music scenes. “Guitar Mania” became a phenomenon in the 1800s, and studio records in Camden were monumental. Performances by acclaimed artists such as Paul Robeson, Woodie Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Joan Baez and Bob Dylan spotlighted the state’s folk revival movement and inspired a diverse collection of singer/songwriters, community organizations, radio stations, outdoor festivals, concerts, and open-mic nights at village coffeehouses.

Today, the tradition remains strong, highlighted by the annual New Jersey Folk Festival, held each April on the New Brunswick campus of Rutgers University. Musical styles continue to evolve. Author Michael C. Gabriele traces the evolution and living history of folk revival music in the Garden State, and examines how the music has changed the lives of people on stage and in the audience.

Please register in advance as space is limited.